You can give way to the grief — or you can give thanks that you loved enough to grieve. — Ann Voskamp
There are no words that can fully capture our sorrow or explain what Jack meant to us. I know this is painful because you loved him too, and I’m so sorry for that shared loss.
For thirteen years so many of you were part of Jack’s life. Whether you met him in person or followed his antics here on the blog and social media, he brought laughter and warmth to everyone he touched.
My sister often said she loved how Jack put his whole self into his bark — and that reflected how he lived every day. He wasn’t merely present; he was fully engaged in our lives and every ordinary moment became meaningful because he was there.
Whether he was stealing a starfish from a garland, plucking an ornament from the Christmas tree, or sneaking napkins from a lap, Jack kept us on our toes and filled our home with mischief. His playfulness wasn’t mean-spirited — he loved to make people laugh and to connect. If you didn’t notice something in his mouth, he’d happily drop it and curl up by your feet, resting his head on your lap.
Jack made connections in simple, gentle ways so you always felt loved. He enjoyed watching TV with the family — especially dog shows — and would plant himself right between us on the couch. Every morning he greeted me first: even half-asleep, he would open his eyes as I walked by and reach a paw from his bed to shake my hand.
He never sought solitude; Jack insisted on being where the people were. He loved car rides, calming Lily on drives, and he enjoyed walks in the forest, on the beach, or anywhere his family went.
Jack stood by us through losses and hard seasons and helped create countless happy memories. Over the years he welcomed every new family member — spouses, babies, puppies — with an open heart and gentle love.
Even in his final hours, when he no longer had the strength to stand, walk, or bark, he still brightened when our kids and grandson came in. His eyes lifted, he raised his head to greet them, and his tail wagged. Those small gestures said everything.
Our children were Jack’s greatest joy. He made sure they knew they were loved, and they returned that love until the end. We are grateful that God brought Jack into our lives and gave us the gift of his love.
I wish with all my heart he could have stayed longer. We miss him more than words can express and there have been many tears. Yet we are thankful for every season we shared and for the lasting ways he touched our lives.
Over his thirteen years, Jack taught us how to live fully. He made the most of every moment, showed us how to express love more freely, and reminded us to create connections and memories. He modeled being present — standing by each other in laughter and in sorrow — and showed that faithful presence is what gives life meaning.
We are heartbroken, but that depth of grief is a reflection of the deep love Jack gave us and the deep love we have for him. For that love, and for the joy he brought, we are grateful.
Thank you for loving Jack — and for loving Lily as well.
